Top 7 ways to protect your joints

You might take your joints for granted, but it’s important to avoid overstressing them.

Over time, that can lead to osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. With this condition, the cartilage that covers the bones in a joint thins and, in some cases, wears away entirely. That can lead to pain and swelling and can interfere with your ability to move comfortably.

Here are some simple ways to keep your joints healthy:

Get regular exercise. Working out helps strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints. That can help prevent wear and tear on the cartilage in a joint.

Vary your exercise routine. Do aerobic exercise one day and resistance training the next. This will give your joints a chance to rest.

Wear safety equipment. When you go for a bike ride, for instance, wear a helmet. If you in-line skate, wear wrist and knee pads and don’t forget your helmet.

Start new activities slowly. Find out how your body reacts to them first. That will help reduce your risk of injury.